Detailed Breakdown:

First Half:

The game started with early physical play between LeBron James and Anthony Edwards, setting the tone.
Anthony Edwards displayed his signature aggression, especially in the second quarter, hinting that Minnesota would control the game’s tempo.
Despite a sluggish first half, Edwards picked up momentum entering the second half.
Lakers’ early defensive efforts and clutch plays, including a key LeBron block, kept it close.

Third Quarter:

Minnesota tightened their execution while the Lakers showed early signs of fatigue.
Coach JJ Redick made a critical adjustment: no substitutions for the Lakers in the second half — running LeBron, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Luka Doncic (note: should be clarified — was this a mistake? Likely D’Angelo Russell or another player, as Luka doesn’t play for the Lakers), and Dorian Finney-Smith (another potential misstatement unless it was an acquisition) — for all 24 minutes, an NBA playoff rarity over the last 25 years.
The Timberwolves, meanwhile, smartly rotated their lineup to stay fresh.

Fourth Quarter:

Anthony Edwards took over.
- He was responsible for 20 of Minnesota’s 32 fourth-quarter points (16 points scored directly, 4 points assisted).
In contrast, the Lakers mustered only 19 total fourth-quarter points.
A critical review late in the game (thanks to NBA rule changes allowing expanded reviews) reversed a possession to Minnesota after a foul on LeBron James, effectively sealing the game.
Minnesota’s lineup of Edwards, McDaniels, Naz Reid, Mike Conley, and Karl-Anthony Towns (or variations) provided the perfect balance of energy and execution down the stretch.

Final Moments:

Expert Analysis:

On Anthony Edwards:

“This is Jordan/Kobe mentality.”
Anthony Edwards’ fourth-quarter performance elevated him from a talented young star to a true playoff killer. His combination of mental toughness, killer instinct, and defensive commitment has separated him from peers his age.
“Every former player’s favorite player.”
Analysts and former players are falling in love with Edwards’ two-way dog mentality — someone who welcomes the pressure and thrives in “giant slayer” roles against stars like Jokic, Durant, and now LeBron.

On the Lakers:

Fatigue and roster trust issues.
JJ Redick’s decision to ride the same five players without substitution was a gamble born from lack of trust in his bench, specifically his centers. Jackson Hayes played only 4 minutes. This over-reliance wore down the Lakers physically, especially LeBron (at 39 years old), who looked gassed late.
Mismatch in youth and energy.
Minnesota’s youth, depth, and better in-game adjustments clearly overwhelmed Los Angeles.

On the Timberwolves:

Clutch DNA now evident.
During the regular season, Minnesota struggled in clutch situations. Now, Anthony Edwards and his supporting cast have matured, executing surgical plays under pressure without relying on hero ball.
Championship-level composure.
Minnesota’s ability to manage rotations, control possessions, and trust team dynamics shows they are no longer just a “good story”—they’re legitimate threats to win the West.